Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Name: Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta; 1 cup roasted corn; 1 avocado, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the vibrant taste of summer with this Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad, a delightful combination of roasted corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing that will make your taste buds dance. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side for your next gathering, bringing a nutritious twist to classic street corn flavors. Enjoy the creamy texture of avocado mingled with the crunch of peppers and onions, all tossed with al dente pasta for a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-18T03:24:29.556Z

This pasta salad is a nod to the traditional street corn but with a healthy twist. It's perfect for summer picnics and barbecues.

A Summer Favorite

With summer in full swing, there’s nothing quite like a pasta salad to celebrate the season's bounty. The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with nutrients. It takes the traditional flavors of street corn and puts a refreshing twist on them. The enticing combination of roasted corn, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables makes each bite a delightful experience.

This dish is perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or even as a light lunch at home. The enticing aroma wafting from the roasted corn combined with the zest of lime and the kick of chili powder sets the stage for an enjoyable culinary adventure. Whether you're hosting friends or just looking to spice up your everyday meals, this salad is a fantastic choice.

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just tasty; it’s also loaded with health benefits. We use whole-grain pasta, which is higher in fiber than regular pasta, supporting digestive health and keeping you full longer. The addition of fresh vegetables like bell pepper and red onion boosts your intake of vitamins and minerals, while the avocado provides healthy fats essential for heart health.

Corn is a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, helping to provide sustained energy. Plus, cilantro adds a unique flavor profile and potential antioxidant properties. Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to a balanced meal, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about pasta salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans. You can also swap out the bell pepper for cherry tomatoes or incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cucumbers.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, try experimenting with various herbs and spices in the dressing. Fresh lime and cilantro are classic companions, but a dash of cumin or a sprinkle of feta cheese can take this salad to another level. Don't hesitate to make it your own!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta
1 cup roasted corn
1 avocado, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl for a delicious flavor combination.

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted corn, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy street corn pasta salad!

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying lunch. The zesty flavors work well with a range of cuisines, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion.

For those looking to up the ante, consider using this salad as a filling for wraps or pita pockets. Its creamy and crunchy textures along with the burst of flavor from the dressing make it an excellent sandwich filler, suitable for picnics or lunchboxes.

Storage Tips

To keep your Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes best when eaten within 1-2 days but can last up to five days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

If you're making this salad in advance, consider keeping the avocado and dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This will help maintain the avocado's creamy texture and vibrant color, preventing it from browning too quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Healthy Street Corn Pasta Salad is truly a celebration of summer flavors. With its fresh ingredients and wholesome benefits, it's a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this pasta salad will leave you feeling satisfied and revitalized.

So next time you're looking for a light yet fulfilling meal, turn to this recipe for inspiration. Embrace the vibrant tastes of summer, and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey with every bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a few hours in advance. Just add the avocado shortly before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What can I substitute for the pasta?

You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free alternative.